They are used off-label.Ī class of medicines called atypical antipsychotics is often effective for addressing motor restlessness, repetitive behaviors, and sleep disturbance in children with autism. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as sertraline (Zoloft) or fluoxetine (Prozac) can sometimes help with mood, anxiety, obsessive thoughts, and compulsive behaviors 1. Symptoms like running away from new situations, compulsive checking or washing, or anxiety from strict black-and-white thinking can present big obstacles in day-to-day life. ![]() A pediatrician may refer a child with ASD to a psychiatrist or a psycho-pharmacologist as the dose is increased.Īntidepressant and anxiety medications can help people with ASD deal with the common challenges of persistent anxiety and obsessive behaviors. Children with ASD can be more sensitive to side effects, and should be monitored carefully when prescribed stimulants. ADHD and ASD commonly co-occur, and it’s important to get ADHD symptoms under control when treating a child with both conditions. Stimulants are the most common class of medications used to treat ADHD. Three main classes of medication are used with ASD patients: stimulants, antidepressant and anxiety medications, and atypical antipsychotics. If behavioral and educational interventions aren’t sufficient, medication may help an individual with autism to better manage his symptoms. Schools with friendship groups or lunch bunches can help kids to learn the basics of social interaction. Channeling excess energy into an independent physical activity, such as swimming or karate, allows them to burn it off without the pressures of socializing. Physical exercise is also a good intervention for children on the autism spectrum who seem to have boundless energy. Checking off checklists can give people with ASD a sense of accomplishment. Parents of children with autism say that posting lists, rules, and schedules helps to keep the household organized. Among the most highly trusted parent-training programs are Floortime (derived from the Developmental Individual-difference relationship-based model), TEACCH autism program, the Lovaas Model (based on the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)), and the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). Parent-training programs teach families how to best cope with autism, and teach parents how to administer therapy at home. ![]() In early-intervention therapy, the entire family works with professionals to improve social, learning, and communication skills. Ongoing behavioral therapy is linked with better long-term health outcomes, even when symptoms of ASD are mild. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help to manage obsessive behavior and anxiety. Social skills training, for example, can teach individuals with autism how to interpret gestures, eye contact, tone of voice, humor, and sarcasm. Even when a child’s behavior is “good,” this type of therapy can help to teach her new skills, and improve her language and social abilities. Treating Autism with Educational/Behavioral Interventionsīehavioral therapy is the mainstay treatment for children with autism. Most clinicians prefer to begin with non-medical therapies designed to manage the symptoms that hinder social and academic success and lead to a turbulent home life. It cannot be cured, but ASD may be managed effectively with three main types of treatment: educational/behavioral interventions, medication, and alternative therapies. ![]() ASD is a lifelong condition that causes difficulties with social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and repetitive behaviors. Roughly three million American children and adults have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a complex disorder of brain development caused by rare gene mutations and pre- or post-natal environmental stresses.
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